Out in the Open will screen Oct. 30 at 6 p.m. the Maine premiere of Heightened Scrutiny, the award-winning new documentary following ACLU attorney Chase Strangio, the first out trans person to argue before the U.S. Supreme Court.

Directed by Peabody Award–winner Sam Federer, the film offers an unflinching look at the high-stakes legal battle to overturn Tennessee’s ban on gender-affirming care for trans youth (United States v. Skrmetti), while exposing the harmful role of mainstream media in spreading anti-trans disinformation, according to a news release.

Through candid interviews with journalists Jelani Cobb, Lydia Polgreen, and Gina Chua, as well as activist and actress Laverne Cox, Heightened Scrutiny reveals how biased coverage fuels hate, endangers lives, and threatens democracy itself. With the Supreme Court’s recent decision upholding Tennessee’s ban on life-saving healthcare, the film arrives as an urgent call to action against bigotry and injustice.

Out in the Open Program Director Grace Johnston-Fennell said, in the release: “In a time where our elected officials aren’t speaking openly about LGBTQ+ rights, this film pulls back the curtain. Heightened Scrutiny centers trans voices who cut through the rhetoric and speak truth to power.” 

Out in the Open Community Organizer Diana Whitney said in the release, “I am passionate about bringing this compelling film to our communities because it reveals how the fight for bodily autonomy impacts all of us, regardless of gender identity.”

The Maine premiere includes a talkback after the film with special guests, plus opportunities to engage in action in the Alamo Theater lobby. Refreshments will be for sale, and there is no cost to attend the show. Reserve a seat and offer a donation here: https://www.weareoutintheopen.org/registration/p/heightended-scrutiny-screening-bucksport